"To be honest it came as a massive shock, I wasn't really expecting it," he told Sky Sports News. "He's probably the best manager in world football that's ever lived, and he will be a massive loss not just to Manchester United but to the world of football.

"It was a massive shock to me and a few of the lads at the training ground, it will be very strange to go to Old Trafford without Alex Ferguson there."

David Moyes has been appointed as Ferguson's successor on a six-year deal and, while Bale admits he is likely to carry on the 71-year-old's good work, there is scope for a rough bedding-in period.

"I'm sure now they've gone with the new appointment he will be there overlooking everything and making sure everything's smooth," he added.

"Once the new manager comes in you'll see how they hit the ground running. If there are any problems there I think that might give other teams confidence. I thnk it's all about waiting until next season and seeing how things go."

Ferguson will bid farewell to United fans after the game against Swansea at Old Trafford on Sunday, while Tottenham keep up their quest for Champions League football away to Stoke.